Research Interests

Current Projects

To develop novel high school based tobacco cessation and prevention interventions for adolescent smokers using behavioral techniques and pharmacotherapy.

To develop empirical scientific evidence to support national and international tobacco regulatory efforts.

To understand the role of flavors in tobacco/nicotine addiction

To develop novel marijuana prevention and cessation programs for adolescents

To use a developmental perspective, and behavioral and neuroimaging methods, to understand the prevalence and biobehavioral underpinnings of high risk behaviors, including substance use, among adolescents.

To examine the effects of glutamatergic and opiodergic agents on alcohol drinking behaviors including craving.

Research Summary

My research is focused on developing a biobehavioral understanding of the underpinnings of alcohol, tobacco (nicotine) and marijuana use, in adolescent and adult populations, and developing new pharmacological and behavioral interventions to reduce and prevent use of these substances. My more recent work has focused on developing scientific evidence to support national and international tobacco regulatory efforts.